Middle English Romance · English Literature

In Malory’s 'Le Morte d’Arthur,' what does Arthur do with his sword Excalibur just before his death?

  1. He passes the sword on to his son Mordred
  2. He breaks it in two against a stone
  3. He orders Sir Bedivere to cast it into a lake
  4. He buries it at the church in Glastonbury
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: He orders Sir Bedivere to cast it into a lake

Following the Lady of the Lake tradition, Bedivere twice hesitates before finally casting the sword into the water. A hand rises to catch it and brandishes it three times, signaling the end of Arthur's earthly reign.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 20

Practice all 20 Middle English Romance questions

Keep practicing

More Middle English Romance questions